Crura of superficial inguinal ring

Crura of Superficial Inguinal Ring

The Crura of Superficial Inguinal Ring are anatomical structures that form the boundaries of the Superficial Inguinal Ring. They are located in the anatomical region known as the inguinal region, which is situated in the lower part of the abdomen.

Anatomy

The superficial inguinal ring is an anatomical structure that is shaped like a triangle. It is formed by the separation of fibers in the aponeurosis of the external oblique muscle. The crura (singular: crus) are the margins of this ring. The lateral crus and the medial crus form the boundaries of the superficial inguinal ring.

Lateral Crus

The lateral crus, also known as the lateral margin, is attached to the pubic tubercle, a prominent forward-projecting tubercle on the upper portion of the pubis.

Medial Crus

The medial crus, also known as the medial margin, is attached to the pubic crest, which is the rounded edge at the top of the pubis.

Function

The crura of the superficial inguinal ring serve as the exit point for the spermatic cord in males and the round ligament of the uterus in females from the abdominal cavity. They also provide a pathway for the ilioinguinal nerve, which supplies the skin of the upper and medial part of the thigh.

Clinical Significance

The crura of the superficial inguinal ring are clinically significant as they are a potential site for the development of inguinal hernias. Inguinal hernias occur when a part of the intestine or fat pushes through a weak spot in the abdominal wall, often at the inguinal ring.

See Also

• Inguinal Canal
• Inguinal Ligament
• Inguinal Hernia